Holman and Harmon define an annotated bibliography as one which, “in addition to
the standard bibliographic data, includes comments on the works listed” (26). The
purpose for such a bibliography is to concisely and accurately give readers an understanding
of the content and usefulness of the listed texts. Depending on the compiler’s purpose,
an annotated bibliography may or may not include subjective words or opinions.

Use the steps to compile an annotated bibliography.

Work Cited:Holman, C. Hugh, and William Harmon. Fifth Edition. A Handbook to Literature. New
York: Macmillan, 1986. Print.

Look at Examples

Consulting a professional journal that includes an annotated bibliography is especially
helpful. (Ask a reference librarian in Hunter Library for help in finding one.) Pay
attention to the compiler’s comments. How does the compiler … Describe a text? Comment
on its purpose and suitability for an intended audience? Summarize its significant
features? React to its argument or thesis? Directly quote its author?

Consider these three examples. The first was taken from a paper for an English course, the second is from a paper
on New Historicism, and the third is a fabricated example of what not to do. Note:
these entries follow MLA format, and the annotation begins immediately after the publication information.

For examples of annotations in other documentation styles, please read our formatting information.

Use Note Cards

At the top of each card, write a correct bibliographic entry for the source, following
the assigned documentation style: APA, MLA, AMA, or Turabian.

Analyze the Content

Summarize and analyze the content of the sources, one by one, defining the purpose,
main topics, scope, and significant features. List this information on the corresponding
note card. Significant features might include the use of illustrations, footnotes,
examples, and bibliographies, as well as the suitability of the material to the intended
audience. To determine the purpose, main points and scope, scan the table of contents,
the introduction and conclusion, headings, and bullet points, etc.

Alphabetize the Cards

Arrange the note cards in alphabetical order by the author’s last name. Organize the
material for annotation into clear simple sentences or phrases. Make every word count.
(Some instructors require complete sentences in annotations; others do not. Check
with your instructor.) Begin with a capital letter and end with a period. Revise for
clarity, accuracy, and conciseness. Remember, readers want to understand your annotations
quickly and easily.

Format the Entry

Format your entry, using these examples as guides. Note the differences in each documentation style: MLA, APA, and Turabian.

Proofread

As writers, we all make accidental mistakes as we compose our drafts. Don’t forget
to proofread after you’ve finished writing to catch any errors you may have made during
the writing process. Your bibliography will look more professional, and you will appear
stronger as a writer.